Regular eye tests and simple lifestyle changes can save your vision

David Cartwright

Optometrist and Chair, Eye Health UK – the charity responsible for National Eye Health Week, which takes place 23-29 September 2024

Our sight is precious. Good vision helps us enjoy daily activities and contributes to our general physical and mental wellbeing.

Sadly, one in five Brits will suffer sight loss in their lifetime.¹ For millions, though, this could be avoided by having regular eye tests and making a few simple lifestyle changes.

Early detection prevents vision loss

The natural ageing process as well as the cumulative effects of environmental and lifestyle factors all take their toll on our eyes as we age. Early detection and treatment of common eye diseases are vital to prevent avoidable sight loss and reduce the risk of poor vision affecting your quality of life.

Sight-saving cataract treatment

More than a quarter (26%) of all cases of sight loss in the over-75s are due to untreated cataracts.² Your local optometrist can spot signs of cataract development (and other sight-threatening conditions) years before they become a problem. They can advise on any treatment and prescribe appropriate glasses in the meantime to make the most of your sight.

Surgery is an option for many cataract sufferers. This is a simple outpatient procedure available on the NHS. What many may not realise is that NHS cataract operations can be performed at private eye hospitals where waiting times are often less than four weeks. Ask your local optician for more information.

40% of us have not had our eyes tested
in the last two years, as recommended.

Essential health check

Routine eye tests are essential for everyone, even if you think your vision is fine. Yet, 40% of us have not had our eyes tested in the last two years, as recommended. Worryingly, more than 2 million over 65s have also missed a recent eye check.³

Free NHS sight testing is available for more than 30 million people including children, people aged over 60 and those on income-related benefits.

Disrupting daily life

Almost half of us (49%) say the quality of our vision affects daily activities such as household chores, driving, reading and hobbies.³  Lifestyle habits have a significant impact on eye health regardless of your genetic predisposition. Your diet, weight, activity levels and alcohol consumption can all affect your eye health.

Protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV rays and not smoking will help keep your eyes and vision healthy. Research also shows spending more than two hours a day outdoors can reduce the risk of myopia, even if there is a family history of the condition.⁴